Search Results (56)

Understanding the long-term effectiveness of warm-up strategies is essential for enhancing neuromuscular performance in youth soccer players. This study examined the long-term effects of integrating squat exercises into the final phase of the warm-up over nine weeks on sprint, jump, change-of-direction (COD), and aerobic performance in youth soccer players. Twenty-four male U17 players were randomly assigned to either a squat-based warm-up (experimental group [EG]) or a rondo-based warm-up (control group [CG]). The EG trained twice weekly using 3–4 sets of 4–12 repetitions at progressively increasing intensities (50–85% of 1-RM). Performance was assessed pre- and post-intervention using 10 and 30 m sprint, squat jump (SJ), countermovement (CMJ), standing long jump (SLJ), 5-jump (5JT), T-half (COD), and VAMEVAL tests. The EG showed small to large significant gains in sprint (10 m: −2.21%, Cohen’s d [d] = 1; 30 m: −1.6%, d = 0.58), jumping (SJ: +9.29%, d = 1.23; CMJ: +12.08%, d = 1.83; SLJ: +7.14%, d = 0.8; 5JT: +2.33%, d = 0.32), and COD (−1.41%, d = 0.32), while aerobic endurance showed no significant change (p > 0.05). The CG showed no significant improvements (p > 0.05). Overall, integrating brief, progressive squat exercises at the end of warm-ups twice weekly led to chronic improvements in explosive neuromuscular performance, with minimal impact on aerobic endurance. Full article

Background: Sarcopenia and low muscle mass are prevalent and prognostically relevant in patients with lung cancer, yet their diagnosis remains challenging in routine clinical practice. Opportunistic assessment using computed tomography (CT) has emerged as a valuable tool for body composition evaluation. We aimed to assess the utility of thoracic CT at T12 and T4 levels in identifying sarcopenia and low muscle mass and explore their correlation with morphofunctional tools such as bioelectrical impedance vector analysis (BIVA), nutritional ultrasound (NU), and functional performance tests. Methods: In this prospective observational study, 80 patients with lung cancer were evaluated at diagnosis. Body composition was assessed using BIVA-, NU-, and CT-derived parameters at T12 and T4 levels. Functional status was measured using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) and 30-Second Chair Stand Test. Sarcopenia was defined according to EWGSOP2 criteria. Results: Sarcopenia was identified in 20% of patients. CT-derived indices at T12CT demonstrated better diagnostic performance than T4CT. For detecting low muscle mass, the optimal SMI cut-off values were SMI_T12CT < 31.98 cm²/m² and SMI_T4CT < 59.05 cm²/m² in men and SMI_T12CT < 28.23 cm²/m² and SMI_T4CT < 41.69 cm²/m² in women. For sarcopenia diagnosis, the values were SMI_T12CT < 24.78 cm²/m² and SMI_T4CT < 57.23 cm²/m² in men and SMI_T12CT < 21.24 cm²/m² and SMI_T4CT < 49.35 cm²/m² in women. A combined model including SMI_T12CT, RF_CSA, and the 30 s squat test showed high diagnostic accuracy (AUC = 0.826). In multivariable analysis, lower SMA_T12CT was independently associated with risk of sarcopenia (OR = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.92–0.99, p = 0.022), as were older age (OR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.07–1.47, p = 0.010) and fewer repetitions in the 30 s squat test (OR = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.63–0.91, p = 0.007). Conclusions: CT-derived body composition assessment, particularly at the T12 level, shows good correlation with morphofunctional tools and may offer a reliable and timely alternative for identifying sarcopenia and low muscle mass in patients with lung cancer. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the anthropometric characteristics, motor performance, and isokinetic strength profiles of elite Portuguese female handball players, as well as to examine the relationships among these variables. Methods: Sixteen national-team female handball players with an average age of 20.25 ± 0.45 years, height of 171.13 ± 8.13 cm and body mass of 72.24 ± 10.96 kg volunteered. Evaluations were conducted in two sessions within one week (24–48 h apart). The first comprised anthropometric and motor performance tests, while the second focused on isokinetic strength assessments of the upper and lower limbs. Pearson correlations assessed variable associations (p < 0.05). Results: Direct correlations were found between height and arm span (r = 0.910) and between internal rotation total work and internal rotation average power (r = 0.960). The 9 m jump throw was associated with the 7 m standing throw (r = 0.670). External rotation peak torque correlated with squat jump performance (r = 0.540) and the 7 m standing throw (r = 0.760) and 9 m jump throw (r = 0.568). Internal rotation peak torque associated with squat jump performance (r = 0.674) and the 7 m standing throw (r = 0.550). Knee extension peak torque correlated with squat jump performance (r = 0.650), while knee extension total work was strongly associated with external rotation total work (r = 0.870). Knee flexion total work was associated with knee flexion peak torque (r = 0.910). Conclusions: The integrated analysis of anthropometric, motor and isokinetic variables revealed distinct strength–performance associations in female handball players, highlighting the role of upper- and lower-limb muscle function in jumping and throwing. Full article

The mental and physical health of college students, especially in urban environments like Shanghai, is crucial given the high academic and urban stressors, which were intensified by the COVID-19 lockdown. Prior research has shown gender differences in health impacts during public health crises, with females often more vulnerable to mental health issues. Objective: This study aimed to comprehensively assess the physical and psychological health of Chinese college students post-lockdown, focusing on the relationship between stress, anxiety, depression, sleep patterns, and physical health, with a particular emphasis on gender differences. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study involving 116 students in Shanghai, utilizing psychological scales (HAMA, IPAQ, PSQI, SDS, FS 14, PSS, SF-36) and physical fitness tests (resting heart rate, blood pressure, hand grip, forced vital capacity, standing long jump, sit-and-reach, one-minute sit-up test and the one-minute squat test, single-leg stand test with eyes closed), to analyze health and behavior during the pandemic lockdown. All students have undergone the same life habits during the pandemic. Results: The HAMA scores indicated no significant levels of physical or mental anxiety. The PSS results (42.45 ± 8.93) reflected a high overall stress level. Furthermore, the PSQI scores (5.4 ± 2.91) suggested that the participants experienced mild insomnia. The IPAQ scores indicated higher levels of job-related activity (1261.49 ± 2144.58), transportation activity (1253.65 ± 987.57), walking intensity (1580.78 ± 1412.20), and moderate-intensity activity (1353.03 ± 1675.27) among college students following the lockdown. Hand grip strength (right) (p = 0.001), sit-and-reach test (p = 0.001), standing long jump (p = 0.001), and HAMA total score (p = 0.033) showed significant differences between males and females. Three principal components were identified in males: HAMA, FS14, and PSQI, explaining a total variance of 70.473%. Similarly, three principal components were extracted in females: HAMA, PSQI, and FS14, explaining a total variance of 69.100%. Conclusions: Our study underscores the complex interplay between physical activity (PA), mental health, and quality of life, emphasizing the need for gender-specific interventions. The persistent high stress, poor sleep quality, and reduced PA levels call for a reorganized teaching schedule to enhance student well-being without increasing academic pressure. Full article

Tests assessing physical qualities are regularly used in youth rugby league teams for various functions. However, the utility of such tests is under-explored in this population. In this way, tests are commonly examined in terms of how well they can differentiate performances between groups that are expected to differ and how they relate to outcomes in actual competitive contexts. Therefore, the purpose of this exploratory study was to investigate the discriminative validity and relationships to match performance metrics of frequently used tests to assess physical qualities in male, adolescent rugby league players. Anthropometric (standing height and body mass) and fitness-related (20 m linear sprint, 505-Agility Test, L-run Test, medicine ball throw, countermovement jump, one-repetition maximum back squat, bench press, and prone row tests, and Multistage Fitness Test) physical qualities were measured using common tests in 42 players (16.1 ± 1.3 years). Test outcomes were compared between players in different age and positional groups for discriminative validity analyses. Relationships between test outcomes and match performance metrics gathered via global positioning system and video analysis were also determined. Compared to younger players (14–15 years), older players (16–18 years) had significantly better fitness-related physical qualities (p < 0.05, d = −1.78–1.66), but similar anthropometric qualities (p > 0.05, d = −0.45–0.20). Significant, moderate correlations (p < 0.05, r = 0.56–0.70) were found between (1) one-repetition maximum (1-RM) back squat and relative (per min) high-speed running distance and maximum velocity in matches; (2) 20-m sprint time and relative total distance; (3) 505-Agility Test time and relative line breaks; and (4) height and relative unsuccessful tackles. Consequently, commonly used fitness-related tests demonstrate discriminative validity in detecting differences between age groups, with standing height and the 1-RM back squat showing promising utility given their associations with key match metrics in adolescent rugby league players. Full article

Background: Previous work has found that combining plyometric and resistance training in a single session can be effective in improving maximum strength (muscle contraction ability), vertical jumping, and sprint acceleration performance in young soccer players. However, the literature is scarce in relation to young rugby union players. Thus, the purposes of the present study were to examine the effects of a 6-week combined training (CT) programme that combined plyometric and resistance training in the same session on physical performance measures in adolescent male rugby union players and whether a 4-week period of plyometric training exclusion (Detraining) affects training adaptations. Methods: The participants (n = 15) completed a 6-week CT intervention and 4 weeks of plyometric detraining during the schoolboy rugby union in-season. A performance testing battery was conducted pre-intervention, post-intervention, and 4 weeks post-intervention. Results: A repeated measures ANOVA showed a significant effect for time on CMJ variables (mean power, mean force, and modified reactive strength index [RSI]), 3RM back squat strength, and 505 test time (p < 0.05). Pairwise comparisons revealed that CMJ variables (mean force, mean power, and peak power), 3RM back squat strength, and 505 test performance significantly increased from pre-intervention to post-intervention (p < 0.05). The 4-week plyometric detraining period significantly augmented CMJ variables (mean force, mean power, and modified RSI) and performance measures (standing broad jump [SBJ], 20 m sprint time, 505 test, and 3RM strength). Conclusions: The findings indicate that a 6-week CT programme can augment measures of lower-body power, maximal strength, and change of direction performance in adolescent male rugby union players, and a 4-week resistance training-only period (plyometric detraining) does not negatively affect performance adaptations. Full article

Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the effect of a multimodal prehabilitation program for colorectal cancer patients in body composition, physical and cardiorespiratory fitness as well as its ability to reduce postoperative complications. Methods: A longitudinal observational study evaluated the efficacy of a prehabilitation intervention based on four components: (a) health education and self-care, (b) nutritional counseling, (c) psychological support, and (d) supervised physical exercise. Body composition was determined through bioelectrical impedance analysis; physical fitness variables such as strength was measured by a handgrip dynamometer for upper limbs, and a squat–jump test, countermovement jump test using a contact platform, and a chair–stand test for lower limbs. Flexibility was assessed with the sit-and-reach test. Cardiorespiratory fitness was assessed with the 6 min walking test (6MWT). Moreover, we measured lifestyles related to the amount of physical exercise by accelerometry. Results: The final cohort included 30 patients. Patients completed an average of 9.90 ± 5.26 exercise sessions. Statistically significant changes with varying effect sizes were observed in the following outcomes: SJ values in cm and W for both sexes (p = 0.021/d = 0.14 and p = 0.043/d = 0.10, respectively), SJ in W for women (p = 0.023/d = 0.21), all chair-stand test values (p = 0.021/d = 0.65 for men, p = 0.004/d = 2.08 for women, and p = 0.000/d = 0.84 for both sexes), and sit-and-reach for both sexes (p = 0.005/d = 0.12) and for men (p = 0.044/d = 0.08). All 6MWT values had statistically significant changes (p = 0.001/0.46). Women reduced the weekly minutes spent in sedentary behavior (p = 0.037/d = 0.65) and increased the minutes spent performing light physical activity (p = 0.037/d = 0.63). With regard to surgical outcomes, there was a tendency towards a decrease in postoperative complications and hospitalization days, as well as minutes in postoperative REA (p = 0.009/d = 0.69) in relation to the control group. Conclusions: Participation in a multimodal prehabilitation program improves several aspects of physical condition and lifestyles related to the amount of physical exercise and reduces both days of hospitalization and several complications post-surgery. Full article

Background: During growth, the reduction in motor control makes core stability training essential, especially in sports involving dynamic jumps. Given the limited training time of adolescent athletes, finding strategies to maximize the effects of core stability training is crucial. This study analyzed the effects of incorporating body-centering techniques (a method that involves conscious modulation of intra-abdominal pressure to enhance postural stability during motor gestures) into a core stability training protocol on balance, trunk control, and lower limb explosive strength in adolescent volleyball players. Methods: Forty-four female volleyball athletes (15.6 ± 1.4 years of age) were randomly divided into three experimental groups: G1 = body-centering + core stability training; G2 = core stability training; and G3 = standard conditioning session. The athletes performed 30 min of differentiated intervention training twice a week for 8 weeks. Balance ability (Berg Balance Scale—BBS and Stork balance stand test—SBST), trunk control (Trunk Control test—TCT), and lower limb explosive strength (broad jump—BJ, squat jump—SJ, and drop jump—DJ) were assessed at the beginning (T0) and the end (T1) of the intervention period, and 12 weeks later (T2). Results: Data showed a significant improvement of BBS, SBST, DJ (p < 0.01), and TCT (p < 0.05) in G1 and G2 at T1 compared to T0, which persisted until T2 except for DJ in both groups. SJ improved only in G1 at T1 compared to T0 (p = 0.016). G1 showed a higher rate of improvement in SBST (T1: +18.2%; T2: +16.8%) and in DJ (T1: +3%) compared to G2 (SBST T1: +7.6%, T2: +5.2%; DJ: +2.5%). In addition, only G1 showed a significant improvement rate in BBS score (+2.2%) compared to G3 (+0.4%) at T1. Conclusions: These results suggested that core training improves balance, trunk control, and explosive strength in young volleyball athletes with and without body-centering. However, integrating body-centering into core exercises leads to better balance and jumping power than core stability training alone. Full article

Background/Objectives: Despite widespread use in clinical and athletic settings, validity of handgrip strength (HGS) as a surrogate for maximal strength remains debated, particularly regarding how testing posture influences its predictive value. Moreover, while HGS is frequently considered a marker of ‘total strength’, this term is often vaguely defined, lacking a clear, performance-based framework. Therefore, this study investigates HGS as a potential surrogate measure for one-repetition maximum (1RM) performances in key compound lifts via back squat (BS), bench press (BP), deadlift (DL), and total (TOT), while accounting for variations in testing posture. Methods: Two distinct testing conditions were used to account for postural influences: Experiment 1 implemented high-output standing HGS (HGS_STAND) in 22 recreationally trained males [Wilks Score: 318.51 ± 44.61 au] vs. Experiment 2, which included low-output seated HGS (HGS_SIT) in 22 competitive powerlifters [409.86 ± 46.76 au], with all testing immediately followed by 1RM assessment. Results: Correlational analyses identified the strongest association between HGS_STAND and 1RM DL (r = 0.693, BF₁₀ = 106.42), whereas HGS_SIT exhibited the strongest relationship with 1RM BP (r = 0.732, BF₁₀ = 291.32). Postural effects had a significant impact on HGS outcomes (p < 0.001, η² = 0.413), with HGS_STAND producing higher outputs than HGS_SIT despite lower absolute strength 1RM capabilities. Conclusions: These findings emphasize the role of biomechanical specificity and neuromuscular engagement in grip strength assessments, indicating that HGS can function as a practical surrogate for maximal strength, though its predictive value depends on posture. Strength practitioners, sport scientists, and clinicians should consider these confounding factors when implementing HGS-based monitoring strategies. Full article

Background/Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine whether a periodized resistance training program would influence self-reported depression and anxiety scores in college-aged females. Methods: Eight participants participated in a six-week periodized resistance training program. The participants completed a 3–5 repetition maximum (3–5 RM) for the sumo deadlift (SDL), bench press (BP), barbell back squat (BBS), and standing shoulder press (SSP). These data were used to estimate the 1 repetition maximum (1RM), which in turn was used to develop the periodization program. Following baseline testing, participants participated in two full-body workouts per week for six weeks. Each individual was retested after they completed the 6-week program, performing 3–5 RM for the SDL, BP, BBS, and SSP. To determine symptoms of depression and anxiety, the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) were distributed before and after participating in the resistance training program. A repeated measures 2 × 2 Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to determine the effect of resistance training had on the outcome measures. Results: There was a significant (p = 0.011) decrease in BDI scores after the 6 weeks of resistance training. There was no statistically significant difference in the BAI scores (p = 0.106). There was no correlation between any individual exercise and the outcome scores. Conclusions: The results of the current study indicate that a periodized resistance training program is effective at reducing self-reported measures of depression using the BDI in college-aged females. Full article

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurodegenerative disease that often leads to severe disability. Although exercise, particularly strength training, improves health outcomes in MS, no standardized, reliable tool exists for functional assessment to inform tailored exercise prescriptions and patients’ categorization. This study aimed to validate the reliability of the MScope battery, a comprehensive tool incorporating structural, functional, and neuromuscular assessments to objectively evaluate patients with MS. A reproducibility study was conducted with 40 MS patients who completed the MScope battery twice, 72 h apart. Tests included structural (muscle thickness of the vastus lateralis and rectus femoris), functional (sit-to-stand, timed up-and-go, 10 m and six-minute walking test), and neuromuscular tests (isometric strength during the squat and leg extension exercises and handgrip strength). Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), Bland–Altman plots, and the coefficient of variation (CV) were used to evaluate intra- and inter-day reliability. The MScope battery showed high intra- and inter-day reliability, with ICC values ranging from 0.79 to 0.99. Muscle thickness measurements, along with handgrip strength, demonstrated excellent reliability (ICC > 0.9, CV < 5%). Functional tests, including the timed up-and-go, 10 m walk, and sit-to-stand variations, maintained consistent scores (ICC > 0.85, CV < 10%). The six-minute walking test exhibited excellent inter-day reliability (ICC = 0.94, CV < 4%). Neuromuscular assessments showed strong reliability with minor day-to-day variability (ICC = 0.75–0.95, CV < 8%). The battery’s overall consistency supports its use as a reliable tool for assessing functional status in MS patients. Full article

Background: The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of resistance training on stable versus unstable surfaces on strength performance in young judokas. Methods: The study included 18 young judokas (age: 13.2 ± 1.2 years) with 4.7 years of training experience assigned to either the URT (unstable resistance training) group or the STG (stable resistance training) group. Both groups performed the bench press and squat exercise for 12 weeks (3 sessions/week, 30–40 min each), with one group performing on the stable surface and the other on the unstable surface. The tests included the 1RM bench press and squat, maximal power output during bench press and squat (Pmax), abdominal strength test (AB60), and the standing long jump (SLJ). Results: Statistical analyses revealed a group × time interaction for AB60 (p < 0.02) in favor of the URT group. Significant main effects of time (p < 0.01) for the 1RM bench press, 1RM squat, bench press power, AB60, and SLJ were found. There were no significant effects for squat maximal power in both groups (p ˃ 0.05). Conclusions: Both unstable and stable resistance training effectively improved maximal strength and performance in adolescent judokas, with unstable training offering additional benefits in abdominal strength. Full article

This study examines the differences in the anthropometric characteristics and motor abilities of young elite female volleyball players depending on their playing position. This study was conducted with 114 U17 female players of the Serbian national team (age: 15.4 ± 0.4 years; body mass: 65.8 ± 7.8 kg; height: 176.8 ± 7.7 cm). All participants had at least four years of volleyball experience. A one-way ANOVA revealed significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) in body mass (BM), body height (BH), body mass index (BMI), one-arm standing reach (1ARS), two-arm standing reach (2ARS), arm span, a medicine ball throw (MT), standing long jump (SLJ), squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump without an arm swing (CMJ), 5 m sprint (S5), 15 m sprint with a flying start (S15), 20 m sprint (S20), and t-test (TT). The results show that a player’s position significantly impacts their anthropometric characteristics and motor abilities, with liberos requiring agility and flexibility, while middle blockers and opposite hitters focus on strength and explosiveness. Outside hitters and setters achieved high results in jump tests, while outside hitters, although agile, had slightly lower results in the long jump. The results confirm that BH and BM, 1ARS, 2ARS, arm span, explosive power, agility, speed, and flexibility significantly impact performance, indicating that a player’s position affects their anthropometric characteristics and motor abilities. Full article

Background/Objectives: Physical performance is becoming increasingly critical in basketball, as it directly influences players’ agility, power, and endurance. This study aimed to assess the progression of body composition and physical performance metrics across different ages and genders, establishing age- and gender-specific reference values for Tunisian basketball athletes. Methods: A total of 469 Tunisian basketball players (239 boys and 230 girls) were assessed and grouped by age. Anthropometric measures—including standing and sitting height, body mass, leg length, body mass index, fat mass, fat-free mass, body fat percentage, wingspan, and leg muscle volume—were collected alongside physical performance metrics. Performance tests included countermovement and squat jumps, change-of-direction speed, maximal oxygen uptake, flexibility, the five-jump test, and 5 m, 10 m, and 20 m sprints with and without the ball. Normative data were generated based on age and gender categories. Results: The findings revealed significant age-related improvements in both anthropometric and performance parameters. Boys consistently outperformed girls in physical and fitness-related measures, with gender differences becoming more pronounced with age. Stepwise regression analyses indicated that, for boys, body fat percentage, leg muscle volume, standing height, and wingspan were the best predictors of physical performance. For girls, body fat percentage, standing height, and sitting height were identified as key predictors. Conclusions: The newly established Tunisian reference values for physical performance in youth basketball provide valuable benchmarks that can support the development of explosive power and strength in players, aiding in talent identification and potentially enhancing individual and team performance outcomes. Full article

The tapping paradigm offers valuable insights into movement timing; however, it simplifies mechanics by minimizing force, restricting motion, and relying on a clear contact endpoint. Thus, it may not fully capture the complexity of larger-scale multi-segmental (or single-segment) timed body movements. The aim of this study was to extend beyond the tapping paradigm by examining the timing of two large-scale movements commonly performed in physical fitness or rehabilitation modalities, with varying inherent balance threats: two-legged squatting (low balance threat) and standing hip abduction (higher balance threat) paced by a metronome set at the participants’ preferred tempo (N = 39, all physically active). In synchronization with the metronome audio signal, the trunk and shank angular velocities were also recorded to extract the entrainment, synchronization, and pace stability metrics. Paired t-tests indicated similar entrainment in both movements (p > 0.05 for IRI match) but significant differences in timing metrics’ manifestations (p ≤ 0.05, standing hip abduction: 50% greater IRI error, 30% lower synchronization error, 2.6% units lower pace stability). The similar entrainment but different synchronization error and pace stability highlight a complex timing interplay between balance threat/challenges and movement complexity concerning the two large-scale movements employed in physical fitness and rehabilitation modalities. Full article